The journey begins

Location: Ushuaia, Argentina

Welcome to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and starting point of our expedition. Upon your arrival at the airport we provide a transfer to your hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the voyage. For the rest of the day you are free to explore the city. Take advantage of souvenir shopping and a variety of dining options in the city center.

Explore

Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia

In the afternoon we provide a group transfer to the pier and welcome you aboard the luxury expedition ship M/V Sea Spirit. Explore the ship and get comfortable in your home away from home for the extraordinary adventure to come. Savor the anticipation of your Antarctic dreams coming true as we slip our moorings and sail toward a true wilderness where wildlife abounds. The scenery as we sail through the Beagle Channel on our first evening is wonderful and there is already the possibility of marine mammal encounters.

Day 2

Day 3-4

Explore

Location: Across the Drake Passage

After transiting the Beagle Channel and passing the islands of Tierra del Fuego, we head south across the Drake Passage. Pelagic seabirds including the majestic albatross are common in these waters and can readily be viewed from panoramic open decks or from exterior stateroom windows and balconies. On the way we cross the Antarctic Convergence, the biological boundary of the Southern Ocean. The ship’s stabilizing fins provide comfort in the event of rough seas. Briefings, orientations, and lectures from our expert staff prepare you for our arrival in Antarctica.

Explore

Location: South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula

This is expedition cruising at its most authentic. Our route and exploration opportunities in Antarctica are heavily dependent on weather and ice conditions. Our experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant. We take advantage of long daylight hours to exploit every opportunity to experience excellent wildlife viewing, amazing scenery, and excursions via Zodiac.

The Antarctic Peninsula region contains some of the world’s most impressive scenery and some of Antarctica’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Protected bays and narrow channels are surrounded by towering mountain peaks covered in permanent snow and immense glaciers. Icebergs of every size and description complete an image of incomparable beauty. Waters rich with krill are home to a variety of whale and seal species. The whole area is alive with penguins foraging at sea and forming large nesting colonies at special places on land. The area is also home to Antarctic research stations of various nationalities. Some stations have a gift shop and post office.

The South Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in Antarctica and will likely be our first sighting of land. This wild and beautiful island chain contains numerous landing sites with abundant wildlife and historical significance. Among them is Deception Island, where the flooded caldera of an active volcano harbors an abandoned whaling station.

At the southern end of Gerlache Strait is the famous Lemaire Channel, also known as “Kodak Gap” because of the photogenic way the mountainous sides of the narrow channel are reflected in calm waters strewn with icebergs.

On this special voyage we have additional days set aside to push even farther south in our attempt to cross the Antarctic Circle. The landscape down here is especially desolate, the weather is particularly wild, and the waters are full of constantly shifting ice. This is real expedition cruising.

Our days in Antarctica are filled with memorable excursions, sumptuous meals, presentations by our experts, and enough incredible scenery and wildlife to fill your camera and overwhelm your emotions.

Day 5-9

Day 10-11

Explore

Location: Back across the Drake Passage

After our amazing time in Antarctica we cross back north through the bountiful waters of the Drake Passage. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff, as well as our range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent. This is also the time for our End of Voyage ceremonies including slideshow and farewell dinner.

Explore

Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

After breakfast we say farewell in the city of Ushuaia, where we started. We provide a group transfer to the airport or to the town center if you wish to spend more time here. As you look back on your wonderful experience in Antarctica, you may already be looking forward to your next incredible adventure to the ice!

Day 12

LocationDisembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

Triple Classic

22 Jan 2018: $ 8,995.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 13,125.00

Size : 23 m² , 250 ft²

View :Picture Window

Beds :2 twins or King , sofa

Deck :Ocean Deck

Main Deck suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 12,195.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 17,695.00

Size : 23 m² , 250 ft²

View :Two Portholes

Beds :2 twins or King , sofa

Deck :Main Deck

Classic Suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 13,095.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 18,695.00

Size : 23 m² , 250 ft²

View :Picture Window

Beds :2 twins or King

Deck :Ocean Deck

Superior suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 13,295.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 18,995.00

Size :22 m² , 235 ft²

View :Picture Window overlooks on outside pathway

Beds :2 twins or King

Deck :Club Deck

Deluxe Suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 14,795.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 20,995.00

Size :26 m² , 277 ft²

View :Private Balcony

Beds :2 twins or King

Deck :Sport Deck

Premium Suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 15,995.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 21,995.00

Size :33 m² , 353 ft²

View :Private Balcony

Beds :2 twins or King

Deck :Sun Deck

Owner's Suite

22 Jan 2018: $ 21,795.00

13 Feb 2018: $ 28,695.00

Size :40 m² , 437 ft²

View :Private deck

Beds :King and Sofa bed

Deck :Sun Deck

Included

1 pre-voyage hotel night at Arakur Resort & Spa Hotel

Group transfer from the airport to the hotel on a day prior to departure;

Shipboard accommodation;

All meals on board throughout the voyage;

Tea and coffee station 24 hours daily;

All scheduled landings/excursions (question to appropriate weather and ice conditions);

Not Included

Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages other than those for special events and celebrations;

Personal expenses such as laundry and telecommunication charges;(telephone calls, faxes, and e-mail service);

Fuel surcharge may be applied for all bookings;

Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a minimum benefit of USD 150,000;

Staff gratuities.

Pre- or post-cruise travel expenses.

- See more at: http://expeditionvoyages.in/poseidon-best-of-antarctica.php#sthash.gZWXtWH2.dpuf

How to pack for polar Climate

Our recommendation is to bring “arctic quality” clothes that will fit into a layered clothing scheme. For example, packing “arctic quality”, light-weight long-sleeve t-shirts, turtlenecks, and a water-proof shell is better than packing five big, cotton sweaters and two huge “winter-down” coats. Three to five pairs of active-wear pants, and then a pair of waterproof pants such as ski or snowboard pants, which is designed to respond to temperatures variations, is much better than seven pairs of jeans. Keep in mind that you may experience anything from t-shirt weather to artic, sub-zero snow-squalls (if you are lucky), so, each day’s temperature might change quickly without any time for you to change your clothes – layers are essential. Of course, your dinner clothes are your decision. Please read the following article designed to give you an understanding of how to dress. The tips and Packing List, below, will act as a guide in the packing process.

Why being layered is so important? Temperatures may be warmer in the day than you expect, which will cause you to sweat. Your sweat will make for a cold feeling and once you get wet, your body will lose its natural temperature at a higher rate than before. If you are dressed appropriately, you can remove a light-weight layer and carry it with you. Second, your body works hard due the climate. The cold weather, snow, and natural adjustment of your body require a significant output of physical energy other than just walking. You will want to be able to take off and put on layers as needed. It can’t be stated enough here; layers are the key to comfort in a Polar climate.

Being waterproof is also essential. Although summer temperatures are generally mild, you should expect wind, clouds, and precipitation. It is also possible that water will spray up on passengers during Zodiac cruising. We can say with certainty that if your clothes are not waterproof on the outer layer, you will get cold. In this regard, we recommend being mindful of having waterproof shoes as well. Trust us, having a water-proofed outer layer can make or break your travel experience.

Beware of tight clothing that doesn’t let your body “breathe”. Part of being insulated is a system of letting the natural warm air of your body counteract the cold air you encounter. If your clothes are too tight, and don’t allow for insulation, you can get cold easily. Also, remember that cotton isn’t really an insulator. So, we recommend more modern artic designed clothing.

Finally, remember the “wind-chill factor” and plan accordingly. A stiff wind on a polar plain can sweep away any generated body heat in a second, and it’s important that your clothes are windproof. A good, warm wind-proofed shell will keep your chill to a minimum, so make sure any shell you bring is insulated, water- and windproof.

The following tips will help you be comfortable in cold weather

Avoid overdressing and reduce perspiration.

Wear water repellent outer layers that will keep you dry on the outside and still able to “breathe” enough that moisture from your body can escape.

Body heat is most likely to be lost from hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry.

Mittens are better than gloves.

If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of the heat you lose will come from your head; be sure to wear a cap.

Dress in comfortable, loose layers. It is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is insular air that, when heated by your body, acts as a natural insulator. It will also allow you to keep from overheating.

Modern “arctic design” clothing is best – Polar fleece is a good example. Also, wool and silk are superior to cotton because they trap warm air. When damp or wet, polyester is a better insulator than goose or duck down.

Packing List

Parka (usually provided by Operator)

You should look for a lightweight, wind and weather-resistant shell with insulation. Bright colors are more visible, and safer in polar environments. Traditionally, Polar travelers wear red.

Warm Trousers

Ski pants are suitable if you have them. Otherwise, bring any sturdy trousers that can be layered between your long underwear and rain over-trousers

А pair of water-resistant “rain-pants” made of coated nylon are essential. These are worn like shell for your legs. Look for Gore-Tex and other synthetic fabrics that are waterproof and “breathable”. These materials keep out wind and water without trapping excess heat. This is probably the most important clothing you can pack for a trip.

Waterproof Pants (Trousers)

You should select medium to thick thermal underwear; long sleeve thermal top, trousers and socks. Most people prefer a ightweight version – but this depends on your personal thermostat. Polypropylene fibres are warmer when damp or wet, than silk or wool, although the CSIRO has recently developed a fine wool product called Sportwool.

Thermal Underwear

Wool sweaters or a polar fleece jacket of medium weight are recommended.

Sweaters or polar fleece jacket

Turtlenecks or t-shirts

Bring several practical turtlenecks or t-shirts for layering and use around the ship.

Mittens and under-gloves

Keeping your hands warm and dry is an important challenge. Thin polypropylene gloves should be worn underneath warm mittens so you can take off your mittens to operate your camera and maintain some level of protection against the cold. These should be loose enough to permit good blood circulation. It’s a good idea to bring an extra pair of wool mittens to wear if your other pair gets wet or lost.f

Woolen Cap or fleece cap

A warm cap to protect your ears.

Scarf

A warm scarf can help you to protect your neck

Warm Socks

Sturdy, tall wool (or other thick material) socks should be worn over a thin pair of silk, polypropylene or cotton/wool socks which provide enough insulation for your feet. Bring several pairs of outer socks, as your feet will inevitably get wet.

Insoles for gumboots

They will keep your feet warmer when sitting in the Zodiac for long periods.

Rubber Boots (usually provided by Operator, please check at the time of booking)

A pair of pull-on rubber, unlined and completely waterproof boots that are mid calf or higher (12-16", 31-41 cm high) with a strong, ridged non-skid sole is essential for landings. You may have to step from the Zodiac into icy water up to 10" (25 cm) high on some landings. Also, expect poor footing on the ice and ashore. Do not bring heavy, cumbersome boots that make it difficult to walk. Boots with waffle soles like those on a hiking boot or running shoe tend to give the best footing. Ideal boots are «Wellies» or «Viking» boots. Remember that you will be wearing these boots a lot. So they must be comfortable for extended wear and walking. The boots should not be too tight or too sloppy. If they are too tight you will get cold feet.

For maximum warmth, wear loose-fitting boots and two pairs of socks. Try out your boots before the voyage.

Ship Attire

Dress on the ship is informal. Clothing on board is usually jeans, corduroys, casual slacks or trousers, long sleeve shirts or t-shirts, fleece and a parka in hand during the day. Lightweight walking shoes/boots are comfortable and some people like to take them ashore.

Backpack

A waterproof nylon backpack, rucksack, or similar bag for carrying your camera and other gear. Make sure your primary shore-landing bag has shoulder straps so that your hands are free, when boarding the Zodiac. It is very important that you have some way to keep your camera dry, particularly while you are on the Zodiacs.

Sunglasses

High quality sunglasses with U.V. filter are recommended even on cloudy days, as the U.V. reflects powerfully, even when you don’t expect it. We do not require “glacier glasses”; your normal sunglasses will suffice, but polarized sunglasses are most effective. Tinted ski/snowboard goggles are also be useful if conditions are windy, snowy, etc.

Sun-block lotion

Protective sun-block lotion for your lips, hands and face. The reflected glare from water, snow and ice can be intense and will burn the skin of passengers in certain conditions. In any regard, it is highly recommended.

Camera

Camera, battery charger. It is advisable to bring an extra camera in case of malfunction or accident.

Extra pair of prescription glasses

Those who wear contact lenses should also bring glasses because salt and wind can irritate the eyes.

Bathing suit

For hotels, aboard some ships and (just maybe) a polar plunge.

Medicines

Prescription medicines and other remedies such as seasickness medication. Be prepared for rough water – also, please bring a signed and dated letter from your physician stating any health problems and dosage of medications, for emergency use.

Binoculars

A pair of binoculars for spotting whales and seabirds from deck is highly recommended.

Plastic bags

Zip lock plastic bags for your camera.

Earplugs

Earplugs may be useful if you are sharing a cabin with a snorer.

Dressing for Gateway Cities

Don't forget this important aspect of your trip – your personal style is our best advice.

Jan BrydeExpedition Leader

Jan was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1966. He spent his childhood in Spain and returned to Germany to finish his studies and become a travel agent by profession. Since 1994 he is working as Expedition Leader and Cruise Director aboard Expedition Vessels, ocean liners and river cruises. While this time he travelled to more than 115 countries, not only to the classical cruise destinations, but also to remote places beyond the touristic paths. Jan cruised around the World, travelled the European Waterways on Rhine, Main and Danube, Russia from St. Petersburg to Moscow and

Rostov, Europe from Norway, the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, cruised up the St. Lorenz into the Great Lakes, visited the Amazon and the Orinoco Rivers, circumnavigated Spitsbergen, explored Kamchatka, Chukotka, the Bering Sea from the Kuril Islands up to Wrangell Island in the Kukchi Sea and crossed the North West Passage visiting Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Expeditions also led him to Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific from Fiji to Easter Island. He made more than 30 voyages to Antarctica, including a Semi ircumnavigation from New Zealand, the Ross Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula. Jan has also reached ten times the North Pole “90° North - Top of the World”. One of Jan Brydes passions is the photography. Combining the photography with his travel experience, Jan holds lectures on high modern digital standard. He upplies various Cruise companies and worldwide agencies with his beautiful pictures and postcards. Jan Bryde is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French. He also speaks Dutch and Danish.

Jan BrydeExpedition Leader

Jan was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1966. He spent his childhood in Spain and returned to Germany to finish his studies and become a travel agent by profession. Since 1994 he is working as Expedition Leader and Cruise Director aboard Expedition Vessels, ocean liners and river cruises. While this time he travelled to more than 115 countries, not only to the classical cruise destinations, but also to remote places beyond the touristic paths. Jan cruised around the World, travelled the European Waterways on Rhine, Main and Danube, Russia from St. Petersburg to Moscow and

Rostov, Europe from Norway, the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, cruised up the St. Lorenz into the Great Lakes, visited the Amazon and the Orinoco Rivers, circumnavigated Spitsbergen, explored Kamchatka, Chukotka, the Bering Sea from the Kuril Islands up to Wrangell Island in the Kukchi Sea and crossed the North West Passage visiting Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Expeditions also led him to Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific from Fiji to Easter Island. He made more than 30 voyages to Antarctica, including a Semi ircumnavigation from New Zealand, the Ross Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula. Jan has also reached ten times the North Pole “90° North - Top of the World”. One of Jan Brydes passions is the photography. Combining the photography with his travel experience, Jan holds lectures on high modern digital standard. He upplies various Cruise companies and worldwide agencies with his beautiful pictures and postcards. Jan Bryde is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French. He also speaks Dutch and Danish.

Jan BrydeExpedition Leader

Jan was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1966. He spent his childhood in Spain and returned to Germany to finish his studies and become a travel agent by profession. Since 1994 he is working as Expedition Leader and Cruise Director aboard Expedition Vessels, ocean liners and river cruises. While this time he travelled to more than 115 countries, not only to the classical cruise destinations, but also to remote places beyond the touristic paths. Jan cruised around the World, travelled the European Waterways on Rhine, Main and Danube, Russia from St. Petersburg to Moscow and

Rostov, Europe from Norway, the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, cruised up the St. Lorenz into the Great Lakes, visited the Amazon and the Orinoco Rivers, circumnavigated Spitsbergen, explored Kamchatka, Chukotka, the Bering Sea from the Kuril Islands up to Wrangell Island in the Kukchi Sea and crossed the North West Passage visiting Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Expeditions also led him to Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific from Fiji to Easter Island. He made more than 30 voyages to Antarctica, including a Semi ircumnavigation from New Zealand, the Ross Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula. Jan has also reached ten times the North Pole “90° North - Top of the World”. One of Jan Brydes passions is the photography. Combining the photography with his travel experience, Jan holds lectures on high modern digital standard. He upplies various Cruise companies and worldwide agencies with his beautiful pictures and postcards. Jan Bryde is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French. He also speaks Dutch and Danish.

Jan BrydeExpedition Leader

Jan was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1966. He spent his childhood in Spain and returned to Germany to finish his studies and become a travel agent by profession. Since 1994 he is working as Expedition Leader and Cruise Director aboard Expedition Vessels, ocean liners and river cruises. While this time he travelled to more than 115 countries, not only to the classical cruise destinations, but also to remote places beyond the touristic paths. Jan cruised around the World, travelled the European Waterways on Rhine, Main and Danube, Russia from St. Petersburg to Moscow and

Rostov, Europe from Norway, the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, cruised up the St. Lorenz into the Great Lakes, visited the Amazon and the Orinoco Rivers, circumnavigated Spitsbergen, explored Kamchatka, Chukotka, the Bering Sea from the Kuril Islands up to Wrangell Island in the Kukchi Sea and crossed the North West Passage visiting Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Expeditions also led him to Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific from Fiji to Easter Island. He made more than 30 voyages to Antarctica, including a Semi ircumnavigation from New Zealand, the Ross Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula. Jan has also reached ten times the North Pole “90° North - Top of the World”. One of Jan Brydes passions is the photography. Combining the photography with his travel experience, Jan holds lectures on high modern digital standard. He upplies various Cruise companies and worldwide agencies with his beautiful pictures and postcards. Jan Bryde is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French. He also speaks Dutch and Danish.

Jan BrydeExpedition Leader

Jan was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1966. He spent his childhood in Spain and returned to Germany to finish his studies and become a travel agent by profession. Since 1994 he is working as Expedition Leader and Cruise Director aboard Expedition Vessels, ocean liners and river cruises. While this time he travelled to more than 115 countries, not only to the classical cruise destinations, but also to remote places beyond the touristic paths. Jan cruised around the World, travelled the European Waterways on Rhine, Main and Danube, Russia from St. Petersburg to Moscow and

Rostov, Europe from Norway, the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, cruised up the St. Lorenz into the Great Lakes, visited the Amazon and the Orinoco Rivers, circumnavigated Spitsbergen, explored Kamchatka, Chukotka, the Bering Sea from the Kuril Islands up to Wrangell Island in the Kukchi Sea and crossed the North West Passage visiting Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Expeditions also led him to Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific from Fiji to Easter Island. He made more than 30 voyages to Antarctica, including a Semi ircumnavigation from New Zealand, the Ross Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula. Jan has also reached ten times the North Pole “90° North - Top of the World”. One of Jan Brydes passions is the photography. Combining the photography with his travel experience, Jan holds lectures on high modern digital standard. He upplies various Cruise companies and worldwide agencies with his beautiful pictures and postcards. Jan Bryde is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French. He also speaks Dutch and Danish.

What weather conditions can I expect?

Weather conditions are generally mild, with temperatures near freezing point. However, the continuous sunlight of 18 - 24 hour days adjusts your thermal temperature to the cold air. Passengers have been known to safely experience ‘t-shirt’ conditions. At the same time, you may encounter fog, white-outs, and other adverse weather conditions

What weather conditions can I expect?

Weather conditions are generally mild, with temperatures near freezing point. However, the continuous sunlight of 18 - 24 hour days adjusts your thermal temperature to the cold air. Passengers have been known to safely experience ‘t-shirt’ conditions. At the same time, you may encounter fog, white-outs, and other adverse weather conditions.

Will I be seasick?

Antarctica - Everyone reacts differently to the occasional, rough water of the Drake Passage. Passengers should consult their personal physician prior to travel and carry the recommended preventative medications at all times. That said, not all Drake Passage crossings are tumultuous.

The Arctic – While we are navigating between the Arctic islands we may get into rough seas. But once sheltered by islands in icebound waters, you won’t feel any ocean swell or heavy seas.

I travel alone. Can I avoid single supplement?

Solo travelers discover that every voyage welcomes passengers observing Polar Regions as a personal experience. Solo travelers who want to have a cabin to themselves pay a single supplement. Others must apply to our Request-Share program.

The Request-Share program matches solo travelers of the same gender who are willing to share a cabin space. Both guests save money by not paying the single supplement fee. Should we be unable to find a cabin-mate for a Request-Share traveler, the single supplement is waived.

What are the major expenses not included in programme rates?

Air flights to the starting/finishing points of our cruises are not included. We do arrange flights for travelers seeking comprehensive planning.

All passengers must have comprehensive travel insurance coverage with a minimum EURO 100,000 (North Pole) and $150,000 (Antarctica) emergency medical coverage. The insurance IS included in the North Pole travel package and is NOT included in the Antarctic travel package

Some passengers need to purchase additional outdoor clothing in advance of the trip. This is an essential part of the planning process. We include the official Poseidon Expeditions parka in the cost of your expedition (please check at the time of booking) and provide water-proof boots as needed. Please be sure to review the packing list provided to you by our staff and adhere to the guidelines.

If you are pleased with the crew’s service, gratuities / ‘tips’ can be made in cash or charged to your on-board account and are ALWAYS at your discretion. We recommend that you budget 12 USD per person, per day on Antarctic cruises and 22 EURO per person, per day on North Pole. Gratuities are collected anonymously AT THE END of each voyage and are distributed among staff and crew at that time.

May I extend my stay in the embarkation/disembarkation city?

Yes. We offer a variety of travel packages designed to maximize the potential of your travel time.

When is disembarkation?

Leaving the ship requires certain formalities; such as a Customs Inspection. We generally begin disembarkation after breakfast on the final day. This is followed by a group shuttle to the nearest airport.

We strongly recommend that homeward bound flights be booked for departure AFTER 12:00 (pm) (noon) on the final day. We cannot guarantee your arrival to the airport until the afternoon.

All North Pole travel packages include a post-cruise, airline ticket to Helsinki along with one night hotel accommodations in Helsinki.

Will I have opportunities to explore ashore during polar expedition cruises?

Yes, of course. Each ship is equipped with motor powered and paddled, inflatable landing crafts known as ‘Zodiacs’. These easy to navigate boats are used for ocean level cruising and landings. From there, you will hike tundra and ice fields.

We fully understand the popularity of shore activities and provide them as frequently as possible. Of course, seasons and weather may determine where you go ashore and how often. Please work with our sales staff to ensure your satisfaction. We strive to create an experience that best suits your lifestyle and needs.

Is there a doctor on the ship?

Our Expedition Team always includes a doctor who is responsible for the health of our passengers and Expedition Team. Also, each ship has a clinic area equipped to handle foreseeable emergencies.

Can I get medications on the ship?

It is extremely important that you bring any prescribed medicines with you. While we do carry emergency supplies of common medications, we cannot access the kinds of information necessary to guarantee a surplus of the necessary medicine for all travelers on a given cruise.

Please plan for the entirety of your travel time – not just your time on the cruise.

Do I need to pack formal clothing?

There is NO requirement of formal dress at any point. If you choose, there will be welcome and farewell cocktail parties and daily dinners well suited to a dress shirt and casual slacks, or the equivalent for women.

What is there to do on the ship?

Our voyages include education supplements to prepare you for shore landings and scientific discovery. After that, other than meals, informal activities range from bird and whale watching to movies and snacks in the evening. There are board games available in the lounge area and a bar for conversation and spirits.

The open-air decks make excellent platforms for photography and wildlife observing.

What is the average age of the people traveling on your ships?

The ages of our travelers range from 20 to 80, with the majority between 45 and 65 years.

Should I be physically fit to travel to polar regions?

You should strongly consider not joining the expedition if you are suffering from any life threatening condition or require walking assistance. The polar regions are a remote area with zero access to full-scale medical facilities and daily routines include steep gangways and terrain mobility. Note that we do provide a range of activities when ashore.

How much luggage can I bring?

It’s always best to pack ‘for’ the segment of your flight itinerary that has the smallest baggage allowance requirement - baggage allowances on international flights are often larger than domestic flights. Also, be sure to check with your airline to confirm what you are allowed to carry.

The ship does have laundry facilities, so you do not need to pack clothes for every day. Our advice is to be reasonable.

Do you have any advice on ensuring a best possible encounter with penguins?

Yes, there is good advice for making sure you have a perfect penguin encounter.

Penguins are curious. Pick a spot no closer than 5 meters from the penguins. Sit or kneel - making yourself smaller and less threatening. Wait quietly, with your camera ready - they will be much more open to coming over to you than vice versa. Otherwise, you would scare them away.